Lombraña Appointed as Purcellville Police Chief

by Hanna Pampaloni | LoudonNow.com

After more than a year of holding the interim position, Sara Lombraña tonight was appointed as the Purcellville Police Department's next permanent chief of police. 

During the Town Council's meeting Tuesday night, Mayor Christopher Bertaut made an agenda amendment to add a police chief appointment item. 

Interim Town Manager Tony Sabio appointed Lombraña to the position, saying the issue had been outstanding for too long.

“I look forward to her serving this community,” Sabio said.

That was followed by a motion from Bertaut to confirm Lombraña's appointment which passed unanimously. 

That decision was supported by applause from the audience of town residents, many of whom have been calling for Lombraña's appointment for months. 

Lombraña had been identified as the top candidate for the post by a recruitment review committee in October, but a Town Council majority had not lined up behind that recommendation until tonight.

“I would like to take the opportunity to say thank you to the members of the Purcellville community for their ongoing support," Lombraña stated. "I am truly humbled by the faith and trust that has been bestowed upon me. It has been a challenging year for everyone, and we are committed to a continued partnership with our residents, businesses, and community partners. Most importantly, I would like to thank my officers and professional staff for their patience and trust in me."

Lombraña was hired to the position of deputy chief in August 2024. She was named interim chief in February following Barry Dufek's retirement from the position.

Read More: Purcellville's Police Department Debate